Johnson County commissioners voted 7‑0 Aug. 14 to authorize a contract with ICON Structures Inc. for interior improvements at the New Century Adult Detention Center, approving a project budget not to exceed $1,898,000.

Facilities and Sheriff’s Office staff told commissioners the project will significantly expand video‑court capacity at the New Century facility, roughly tripling the number of video rooms available and improving acoustics and operational flow. Lieutenant Corey Smith of the sheriff’s office said the facility’s video appearances rose from fewer than 3,000 annually in 2017–2018 to nearly 9,000 today at the New Century site, increasing demand for video court capacity.

Why it matters: Staff framed the project as a safety and operational improvement. Video appearances reduce transportation and safety risks associated with in‑person court appearances and can lower staff travel time and overtime costs, officials said. Commissioners noted the project also addresses a long‑standing backlog and helps courts clear dockets more efficiently.

Cost and procurement: Commissioner Ashcraft said he had concerns about bid responsiveness and urged procurement staff to consider minor clerical errors in future bids; staff explained a low bidder was disqualified for missing a required document and that the project cost had been reduced from an earlier $8 million estimate through design adjustments. Commissioner Hanslick praised Facilities for reducing the cost from the earlier figure.

Implementation: The motion, moved by Commissioner Allenbrand and seconded by Commissioner Hanslick, authorized a contract under IFB number 2025‑024. Staff said the project will improve seating and staging to allow multiple dockets to proceed by video simultaneously and will help mitigate safety concerns tied to court transport. Commissioners asked for future analytics on potential overtime savings; staff said some savings could accrue through more efficient use of staff time and reduced transport needs.

What was not decided: The contract authorizes construction work; it does not change court policy or staffing numbers. Staff said additional operational changes and data tracking would be pursued during implementation.